FGF-2 in Bone Regeneration and Craniofacial Tissue Engineering: A Comprehensive Update

Abstract Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) has been investigated as a potential adjuvant to periodontal regeneration because it promotes angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and osteogenesis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive update on recent research exploring the use of FGF-2 in periodontal regeneration. In recent years, FGF-2 has been delivered through various advanced methods, including hydrogels, nanoparticles, and scaffold-based systems. These systems enable sustained release and localized delivery, improving the therapeutic efficacy of FGF-2. Recent long-term studies suggest that FGF-2 may augment the efficacy of bone grafting. Nevertheless, FGF-2 has not been used due to several reasons, including the high production costs, optimal dosing strategies, and variability in patient responses to FGF-2 therapy. More recently, FGF-2 has been incorporated into scaffold materials to develop functionally graded membranes, which have demonstrated potential for sustained release of the growth factor into the periodontium, promoting effective tissue regeneration. Nevertheless, further research is required to optimize its application and ensure long-term efficacy and safety.